Sacroiliac Joint Injections in Louisiana
A sacroiliac (SI) joint injection relieves pain caused by arthritis and inflammation in the joint where the spine and hip bone meet. At LA Pain Doctor, we use image-guided SI joint injections to help patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA find relief from lower back, buttock, and hip pain.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is the Sacroiliac Joint?
You have two sacroiliac joints, one on each side of the lower back, where the sacrum at the base of the spine connects to the pelvis. These joints absorb shock between the upper body and legs. When they become inflamed from arthritis, injury, pregnancy, uneven walking patterns, or prior spine surgery, they can cause pain that is easily mistaken for a disc problem or sciatica.
Signs of Sacroiliac Joint Pain
- Pain on one or both sides of the lower back or buttocks
- Pain that spreads into the hip, groin, or upper thigh
- Discomfort when standing up, climbing stairs, or rolling over in bed
- Stiffness after sitting or standing for long periods
How the Injection Works
During the procedure, your provider numbs the skin and uses X-ray guidance to place a thin needle directly into the SI joint. A combination of numbing medicine and steroid medication is injected to reduce swelling and inflammation. The numbing medicine can also confirm whether the SI joint is truly the source of your pain, which helps guide future treatment.
The injection takes just a few minutes, and most patients go home shortly afterward. Relief from the steroid typically begins within a few days and can last for weeks to months, giving you a window to strengthen supporting muscles through therapy.
Related Treatments
SI joint injections are often part of a broader plan for lower back pain treatment and hip pain treatment. Depending on your symptoms, your provider may also recommend lumbar epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, or a hip joint injection. Patients with Osteoarthritis of the Hip or Degenerative Disc Disease often have overlapping sources of pain, and we will help sort out which treatment fits best.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sacroiliac Joint Injection
What does sacroiliac joint pain feel like?
SI joint pain is usually felt in the lower back and buttocks and may spread to the hip, groin, or thigh. It often worsens with standing, stairs, or rolling over.
How long does an SI joint injection last?
Relief often lasts weeks to several months. Results vary based on the cause of your pain and your activity level.
Is the injection painful?
The skin is numbed first, and most patients feel only brief pressure. The procedure takes just a few minutes.
Can SI joint pain be mistaken for sciatica?
Yes. SI joint pain can radiate into the buttock and thigh, which can feel similar to sciatica. A diagnostic injection can help tell the difference.
How soon can I return to normal activities?
Most patients resume light activities the same or next day. Your provider will give you specific instructions.
Can I have more than one SI joint injection?
Yes. If an injection helps, it can be repeated a few times per year when needed.
Where can I get an SI joint injection?
LA Pain Doctor offers SI joint injections at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to schedule.
Relieve Lower Back and Hip Pain
Find out if your SI joint is behind your pain. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.